Pattern Alterations for Costumes

Learn how to find the best pattern as a starting point when sewing a costume or a cosplay. Nicki LaFoille discusses sources and what to keep in mind when searching for a pattern for your costume.

While some costumes have specific patterns for that exact costume, some may not. Search the internet, Etsy, and pattern companies’ websites for your character or genre of character. Simplicity.com is a great resource for many different costume patterns. If there isn’t a specific pattern for your character, identify the basic garments needed for the cosplay, and find patterns for those. For example, search for a bodysuit or jumpsuit pattern, rather than superhero costume pattern.

Nicki discusses what elements of a pattern to prioritize over others if you cannot find an exact pattern match. Some pattern alterations are easier to accomplish than others, so silhouette, length, and neckline shapes don’t need to be prioritized.

Once you identify a costume pattern to start from for your cosplay, Nicki discusses several common pattern alterations to help achieve the exact look you’re going for.

Nicki recommends translucent pattern paper, such as this one she uses in the video.

Alterations to the sleeve style can be achieved with just a few lines on the pattern. Nicki demonstrates how to alter a sleeve to create a puff sleeve style. The puff sleeve is a typical style found on many princess costumes and some medieval historical cosplays.

You will also learn how to add a seam line anywhere on a pattern, which is useful for color blocking, adding different fabrics, or adding trims in a seam.

For more costume and cosplay tutorials, check out these videos:
Adding Metal Details to Costumes
Fabrics for Costumes and Cosplay
How to Make a Superhero Cape
How to Make Fairy Wings
How to Sew Fake Fur